Saturday Fulham Stuff - 22/11/25...

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Interest in Fulham player 'is real' – Approach made directly to player's camp
Adama Traoré is in his final year of contract at Fulham and his future beyond this season remains uncertain.

The 29-year-old's contract situation has alerted Sevilla and they have set their sights on him. That's according to Orgullo Biri, a local outlet who report the La Liga side have made an approach to sign the Fulham player.

They've contacted the forward to ask about his salary demands and availability.

Traoré is a product of Barcelona's academy and spent 11 years at the Catalan club between 2004 and 2015. He returned to the Camp Nou on loan for a short spell in 2022.

His preferred position is on the right wing and he can also operate in other attacking positions. The Fulham man's experience in Spain, versatility, contract situation and physical strength make him an 'interesting option' for Sevilla.

Traoré has failed to score and contributed one assist from 12 matches for Marco Silva's side this season. However, the Andalusian club are still interested as they feel he fits what they are looking for in an attacker.

Sevilla's 'interest is real' and they have already made a move for the Spaniard. A potential move depends on the financial conditions and how the market evolves.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/interest-in-fulham-player-is-real-approach-made-multiple-factors-make-him-interesting-option/

[WhiteJC]

Sources: Marco Silva could 'walk away' from Fulham after latest talks
Marco Silva could delay making a decision about his future at Fulham despite being offered a new contract during the international break.

A three-year deal is on the table for the 48-year-old and positive talks have been held despite what has been a difficult start to the season at Craven Cottage.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, Silva will take his time before committing to a decision over his future, as he is set to weigh up all of the options available to him rather than rushing into an extension.

Football Insider revealed on 14 November that Fulham are determined to agree terms with Silva to end any speculation about his position in West London.

The boss' current contract is set to expire at the end of the year, while there has been speculation Silva could be sacked by Fulham as a result of recent poor displays.

Fulham want Marco Silva to agree new contract
Football Insider revealed on 24 October that Fulham are doing everything to keep Silva at Craven Cottage and do not plan to let him leave.

However, the manager will make the final decision about his future amid ongoing speculation, with uncertainty now surrounding his position despite positive talks.

Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: "Well I think Fulham ideally would like something done pretty soon.

"Talks have been held between Marco Silva and Fulham during this most recent international break.

"A three-year deal is on the table and there is confidence within the Fulham camp that Silva will pledge his future to the club and end any speculation.

"Silva could walk away on a free transfer or walk away and obviously nobody at Fulham wants that to happen, they want to keep hold of Marco Silva in the long term.

"But Silva does seem to like to take his time over these decisions as well, which Fulham don't want.

"They'd rather get it done quickly so they know where everybody stands."

This comes after Football Insider revealed on 14 October that Fulham currently have no plans to sack Silva and are in ongoing talks about renewing deal at Craven Cottage.

How Fulham could convince Silva to sign a new deal
Football Insider revealed on 26 October that Fulham must prove that can match Silva's ambition if they want him to extend his stay at Craven Cottage.

Silva wants assurances over Fulham's transfer plans amid suggestions he could walk away if not given the board's backing in the January transfer window.

This comes after what proved to be a frustrating summer despite the eventual deals agreed late in the window, which left the boss questioning his position.

Football Insider revealed on 10 October that Saudi Pro League clubs are interested in Silva and could make a move to lure him away from Fulham.

Meanwhile, Silva was linked with the Nottingham Forest job and Man United were interested in the Fulham boss, leading to growing uncertainty in West London.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-marco-silva-could-walk-away-from-fulham-after-latest-talks/

[WhiteJC]

Nathan Hallett-Young | We're ready for the challenge against Fulham | Bristol Rovers FC
Bristol Rovers Women are looking to build on last year's brilliant Adobe FA Cup run and progress to the third round when they host Fulham at The Memorial Stadium, with Nathan Hallett-Young ready for the challenge the Cottagers will bring.

Having made it to the fourth round in the 2024/25 season, Bristol Rovers Women want to make history again. The Gas Girls started the competition with a thumping 6-1 victory over Marine Plymouth Academy before beating Haringey Borough Women 3-0 to progress to the second round. 

Rovers are third in the Division One South West and are six points behind league leaders Moneyfields. The Cottagers have had a stellar season and are top of Division One South East, one point ahead of Norwich City. Fulham cruised to the second round of the Adobe Women's FA Cup after beating South London 5-0 and will be looking to extend their impressive unbeaten run to five fixtures.

Speaking to BRTV before the fixture, Nathan Hallett-Young is confident that Bristol Rovers Women are in good shape to make it through to the next round of the Adobe Women's FA Cup.

Are you and the team ready for the Adobe Women's FA Cup draw against Fulham?
"I think we're ready for the challenge. I think that across the board, we've shown that we can play some really good football and go toe-to-toe with the top of our division. Obviously, they're the top of theirs at the moment, so it's going to be an interesting one. 

"It's the South West division versus the South East, so it'll be interesting to see the difference in the level between the two, and obviously, it's at the same step of the pyramid, so for us, it'll just be a matter of going into it as we would normally go into it. 

"We'll plan across the week and put what we need to do into play. I think we're solid in our structure. We've got to make sure that we're firing across all cylinders in front of the goal, and I think it'll cause enough problems for them."

I think we're ready for the challenge. I think that across the board, we've shown that we can play some really good football and go toe-to-toe with the top of our division.

What you would it mean to get to the next round of the competition?
"I think first and foremost it's the visibility. It's the opportunity to play against sides that you don't normally play against. 

"This round is great; we've not played Fulham before, and hopefully it's an opportunity for us to draw a good crowd and play at The Memorial Stadium. Additionally, like last season, financially, it's obviously a massive help to us.

"We drew in quite a substantial amount of money from the FA Cup last year, and obviously that helps going into the operational budget going into this year as well. So, it's massive for any club that's involved."

What challenges do you think you will face against a tough Fulham team?
"I think it will be very similar to last weekend when we played Moneyfields. Quite a direct, physical side and somebody who will be looking to play the transitional game quite often. I think they'll probably look to play a little bit more football than Moneyfields on the weekend, but obviously, the pitch is going to come into play there as well. 

"So, being at The Memorial Stadium is going to be dramatically helpful for both sides to be able to play some good football. And then obviously for us, it's just a matter of how we step in from this weekend. As much as it's fun to look at them, and how we're going to pose their challenges. 

 "For us, we've got to flip it the other way around and think about how we're going to win the game and how we're going to really focus on ourselves to improve on the things that we need to improve on? And obviously to progress forward."

How important is it that this tie is at The Memorial Stadium and you can have the Gasheads behind you?
"It's massive. I think it's really, really important that we're getting another opportunity to fill The Mem. I think the more fans we can get in there, the better. Obviously, we've seen it so far in terms of the games that we have played there, that the crowd make a good atmosphere for us and obviously sets the tone for the game. 

"We've seen it where they've uplifted us and pushed us through. So, hopefully they can do the same going into this weekend, and naturally it's always nice to play at The Mem."



https://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/news/nathan-hallett-young-were-ready-challenge-against-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and Nottinham Forest "preparing proposals" for player – Agency source builds transfer interest
Fulham and Nottingham Forest are "preparing proposals" for İstanbul Başakşehir defender Jerome Opoku.

That's according to Foot-Africa. They have quotes from 'a source close to the player's agency, Aquarius' on the potential transfer.

A report last week, from Africa Foot, stated that Fulham were looking at the defender. He played for them previously but left, establishing himself in Portugal with Arouca and then Başakşehir in Türkiye.

Fulham have reportedly made note of his performances and would now like to bring him back to Craven Cottage. That same report stated Nottingham Forest were also in the mix, though.

According to it, Sean Dyche had personally recommended Opoku to Nottingham Forest's board ahead of the January transfer window. That's now been confirmed by Footy Africa's source. They report that Fulham and Nottingham Forest are both preparing proposals.

"Jerome is flattered by Fulham's interest," they said.

"Returning to Craven Cottage would be a dream, he's a boyhood kid. But Forest's overtures have been serious too: discussions are already underway with Başakşehir.

"Sean Dyche personally pushed for him on the transfer committee. It's not just talk, both clubs are preparing proposals."

The interesting part here is that Africa Foot have picked up the story and run it too. They were the ones who initially broke the interest from Fulham and Nottingham Forest. And they seem happy to relay Footy Africa's latest without question as well.

Whether either side makes a firm move, remains to be seen. But something is clearly building around Opoku and both Fulham and Nottingham Forest are in the middle of it.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-and-nottinham-forest-preparing-proposals-for-player-agency-source-builds-transfer-interest/

[WhiteJC]

Premier League clubs approve new Squad Cost Ratio rules to replace PSR - but vote against a proposal that could have introduced a salary cap
Premier League clubs have approved a new alternative PSR, called Squad Cost Ratio (SCR); clubs will now be allowed to spend 85 per cent of their revenue, with these finances monitored each season; clubs voted against an anchoring system which many felt was effectively a 'salary cap'

Premier League clubs have voted against a new proposal that could have brought in a salary cap from the 2026/27 season, with the division's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) to be replaced by Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) system from next term.

The 20 Premier League clubs voted on three main issues - Squad Cost Ratio, a Sustainability and Systematic Resilience Proposal (SSR) and a Top to Bottom Anchoring (TBA) proposal in a meeting on Friday.

The SCR and SSR rules were voted through, with the SCR voted through via the slimmest of margins. Fourteen out of the 20 Premier League clubs voted in favour of the SCR rules, which was the minimum number of votes needed to pass through the proposals.

The TBA regulations - which would have limited spending on squad costs to five times the amount the bottom club receives from the Premier League in broadcast and prize money, and could have introduced a salary cap as part of its rules - did not receive sufficient support.

Seven clubs were in favour of the anchoring system, 12 clubs voted against it - with one choosing not to vote.

Before the vote on TBA, the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) and some of the UK's biggest player agencies were preparing to take legal action if anchoring was introduced. They felt it was effectively a salary cap on players.

After a legal challenge in 2021, the PFA stopped the EFL introducing a salary cap in League One and Two.

Players and agents warned the Premier League that any rules which included a salary cap would have be challenged in court.

What is SCR? The new rules replacing PSR?
From the 2026-27 season, Premier League clubs will be allowed to spend a maximum of 85 per cent of their revenue on squad costs - which cover player wages, amortised transfers and agents' fees.

Nine Premier League clubs playing in Europe this season are already bound by UEFA's SCR rules which limit spending to 70 per cent of revenue.

A shadow form of SCR has been trialled in the background alongside PSR since the middle of last season.

Each club will be set a 'green threshold' of 85 per cent of their revenues, and a 'red threshold' - an absolute spending limit up to 30 per cent over the green threshold.

Assessments will take place on March 1 of each year after the January transfer window, with monitoring in October.

If a club is above the green threshold, but under the red, they will receive a fine but not a 'sporting sanction', which would be a points deduction.

If a club is above the red threshold, they will face a sporting sanction. This will be a fixed six-point deduction, which increases by one point for every £6.5m spent over the red threshold.

Clubs can appeal both financial and point penalties. A club will have seven days to challenge the board's decision, having first informally written to the league to try and resolve the issue.

How does SCR differ from PSR?
According to the Premier League, PSR and SCR differ in what they measure.

PSR evaluates a club's overall profit by including all revenues and costs, while SCR focuses specifically on on-pitch spending.

By concentrating on squad costs, SCR gives clubs greater freedom to invest in other aspects of their operations.

Under PSR, clubs are assessed based on their financial performance over a rolling three-year period, whereas the SCR sets clear spending limits for each season, which clubs must adhere to throughout that campaign.

Compliance is monitored in-season as well as at the end of the season, allowing for earlier intervention if a club is breaching the rules. That means a club could receive punishments - for example, a point deduction - at any point of the season, rather than solely at the end of the campaign.

According to the Premier League, this shift encourages clubs to manage their finances responsibly in real time, rather than relying on longer-term financial balancing.

On top of that, because clubs announce their revenues in advance of the season, they are given more certainties regarding how much money they can spend.

Under the PSR rules, clubs were susceptible to falling into financial trouble due to unforeseen dips in revenue - caused by poor performances on the pitch, a loss in matchday revenue or commercial revenues falling.

What is the third set of rules clubs voted on - the SSR rules?
According to the Premier League, it is introducing three SSR tests to improve clubs' financial sustainability and 'investability' over the short, medium and long-term, taking into account prevailing market conditions.

The three tests are:

Working Capital Test - Assessment of a club's immediately available cash headroom across a season to ensure it can manage required outgoings and unforeseen fluctuations, particularly between transfer windows. A club must demonstrate that, for each calendar month over the course of a season, the sum of its projected cash balances and qualifying working capital funds is at least £12.5m.

Liquidity Test - Assessment of a club's liquidity headroom over two seasons, including market value of player registrations, to ensure it can account for its current financial position and handle a variety of financial shocks inherent to the industry. A club must demonstrate that, for the current and following season, its 'Liquidity Headroom' is zero or positive having absorbed a 'Stress Test' of £85m. The Stress Test accounts for a variety of potential negative events, such as failing to qualify for Europe as one example.

Positive Equity Test - Assessment of a club's balance sheet to evaluate its financial health, ensuring it has sufficient leverage to manage macro-economic factors. A club must demonstrate that its 'Positive Equity Ratio' (liabilities ÷ adjusted assets) is less than or equal to 90 per cent in the 2026/27 season, 85 per cent in the 2027/28 season and 80 per cent from the 2028/29 season onwards.

Each tests take place on July 7 each year. For newly-promoted clubs, they will be assessed on the Liquidity and Positive Equity tests on October 31.

Clubs may also face a 'Call-In Event' where they would be assessed further on whether they are complying to the rules.

If they do not comply with the rules, the Premier League will offer solutions whereby the club could return to compliance. They could include voluntary spending limitations, cash injections, or rebalancing their debt or equity positions.

Clubs could also be asked to present a business plan of how to bring the club back into within the rules. Failure to present a business plan would lead to sanctions from the Premier League.

Those sanctions could include asking permission from the league to register any new players, a spending limit being imposed or more serious sanctions that are currently in place within the PSR structure, such as a points deduction.

Clubs no longer allowed to exploit asset sale loophole
The Premier League is also closing a loophole which allowed clubs to sell assets to associated parties in order to comply with financial regulations.

Under the current Profitability & Sustainability Rules, clubs have been able to sell assets to companies linked to their owners in order to increase their revenues to ensure they do not lose more than the permitted £105m over three years.

From next season, the SCR calculation will be based solely on clubs' football revenues so there will be no regulatory benefit arising from asset sales to associated parties.

In September last year, Chelsea's owners sold two hotels at Stamford Bridge to a sister company for £76.5m. They also sold their women's team to a parent company for £200m in June 2024.

Everton also sold their women's team to a parent company in June, a move that is no longer possible.



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13473576/premier-league-clubs-approve-new-squad-cost-ratio-rules-to-replace-psr-but-vote-against-a-proposal-that-could-have-introduced-a-salary-cap

[WhiteJC]

Régis Le Bris on threat of Fulham and Marco Silva
Speaking ahead of this weekend's game against Fulham at Craven Cottage, Régis Le Bris has reaffirmed the message that there are no easy games this season whilst heaping praise on his opposite number Marco Silva.

Sunderland go into the game unbeaten in their last four games following a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.

Fulham currently sit 15th in the table with a record of three wins, two draws and six defeats from their opening 11 games. However, the Cottages secured a record points total last season of 54 points as they finished just below mid-table in 11th.

Assessing this weekend's opponents, Le Bris said: "They are really efficient at home, they can create chances in many ways.

"They are really proactive, good side with good players and good experience through their coaching staff.

"I don't really understand why they struggle away from home but it's at Craven Cottage so that is not the main topic for this weekend.

"Another tough challenge, we know in this Premier League that we can't play an easy game. It doesn't exist."

In Fulham, they come up against an established Premier League outfit and a talented coach in the eyes of Le Bris.

Following his appointment in the summer of 2021, Marco Silva is one of England's longest serving managers.

The Portuguese guided the West London outfit to promotion from the Sky Bet Championship in his first season in charge and has kept Fulham in the Premier League with relative comfort ever since.

"He is really good," said Le Bris.

"You can feel quality of the organisation, the flexibility of the system, the way he can manage the different options.

"The first half against Arsenal was brilliant. They deserved to score. It's not just about players, it's about coaching as well and that is really clear."

When asked whether he had a plan up his sleeve as to whether he would come out on top, Le Bris cheekily replied: "We'll see."



https://www.safc.com/news/2025/november/21/r-gis-le-bris-on-threat-of-fulham-and-marco-silva/

[WhiteJC]

Silva plays down doubts over his Fulham future
Marco Silva has insisted he is "on the same page" as the Fulham hierarchy despite speculation over his future.

The club want head coach Silva to sign a new contract. His current deal expires at the end of this season.

Silva, 48, has guided the Whites to promotion and established them in the top flight since arriving in 2021.

He made his frustration clear at Fulham's lack of signings during the summer transfer window, fuelling doubts about his position.

And on Friday afternoon he faced more questions about his position – and whether he will sign a new deal.

He said: "We have been on the same page. Of course we don't agree on everything – I think in your job you don't agree on everything.

"If you have been achieving great results all the seasons we have been here and sometimes overachieving as well, you cannot do it if you are not on the same page.

"Of course, some moments not everything (is) perfect – not everything I'd like to see the club (do) to progress, and sometimes the fans want (that) as well – but that does not mean that we are not on the same page.

"It doesn't mean that we don't have a great relationship and an honest and respectful relationship with everybody at the top of the club."

Silva has never been slow to emphasise his own ambitions and the need for the club to invest in the squad.

He has been linked with other clubs – and was approached about a job in Saudi Arabia – but stayed put.

"I'm an ambitious manager, definitely. I want always the best for the football club," he said.

"I know how difficult it was for us to achieve what we achieved in the last few seasons.

"Standing still is not part of my talks, never, and I always want more. Sometimes that is possible and sometimes not possible, but I can guarantee to you that we have been always on the same page.

"Of course someone that is in charge of the club has to take financial decisions that are not for me, and myself as a manager.

"From my side I think I've given enough signs that I'm not looking always to leave the football club, because as you know I had some chances in the past."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/silva-plays-down-doubts-over-his-fulham-future

[WhiteJC]

Fulham vs Sunderland: Preview and Prediction
Fulham will be keen on ending a dreadful run of form and returning to winning ways when they host Sunderland at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

Premier League football resumes this weekend with Gameweek 12 of the 2025/26 season. The action on Saturday starts with the game between Burnley and Chelsea at Turf Moor before continuing with five simultaneous matches, including Fulham vs Sunderland at Craven Cottage.

Fulham would have hoped to push for European qualification after an impressive haul of 54 points last term. However, after a slow summer transfer window, the Cottagers have endured a challenging 2025/26 campaign, managing only three wins in 11 Premier League outings thus far. That has left Marco Silva's men in the 15th spot in the Premier League standings, only one point outside the relegation zone.

As for Sunderland, the visitors have been the surprise package of the first three months of the 2025/26 season. The Wearside outfit went into November's international break in the fourth spot in the Premier League standings. The Black Cats have lost only twice thus far in the ongoing campaign, and they have the potential to break the recent promotion curse.

The most recent clash between Fulham and Sunderland at Craven Cottage ended in a 1-1 draw in the FA Cup fourth round in January 2023 before the Cottagers won the replay at the Stadium of Light. The Hard Tackle looks closer at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham
Marco Silva has a new roster issue that is hampering his preparations ahead of his side's latest fixture. The Fulham manager will be bereft of the services of three first-team players vs Sunderland on Saturday.

Sasa Lukic is the latest absentee after picking up his fifth yellow card of the 2025/26 Premier League season. The Serbian midfielder has joined Antonee Robinson (knee) and Rodrigo Muniz (hamstring) on the sidelines.

Bernd Leno is an automatic pick between the sticks, with Fulham lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him vs Sunderland on Saturday. The backline will feature Kenny Tete, Joachim Andersen, Calvin Bassey, and Ryan Sessegnon.

As for the midfield unit, Alex Iwobi will drop into the double pivot, pairing up alongside Sander Berge in the middle of the park. Joshua King will reprise the no. 10 role, with Harry Wilson and Kevin being the two wide attackers. Finally, Raul Jimenez will lead the line for Fulham against Sunderland this weekend.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Sessegnon; Iwobi, Berge; Wilson, King, Kevin; Jimenez

Sunderland
Unlike his counterpart in the Fulham dugout, Regis Le Bris has received positive updates on the team news front ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage. The Sunderland manager will be without only two first-team players on Saturday.

Habib Diarra (groin) and Aji Alese (shoulder) are the only players in the treatment room, and the duo will return next month. Meanwhile, Leo Hjelde (Achilles), Reinildo Mandava (hamstring), and Romaine Mundle (thigh) should be fit and available, with Reinildo likely to be ready to start.

Robin Roefs will take his usual spot between the sticks, with Sunderland lining up in a 3-4-3 formation in front of him vs Fulham on Saturday. The central defensive unit will feature Nordi Mukiele, Dan Ballard, and Lutsharel Geertruida. Meanwhile, Trai Hume and Reinildo Mandava will be the two wing-backs.

As for the midfield unit, Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki will hold the fort in the middle of the park. Finally, Wilson Isidor will spearhead the Sunderland attack against Fulham, with Enzo Le Fee and Bertrand Traore being the two wide attackers.

Probable Lineup (3-4-3): Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, Geertruida; Hume, Xhaka, Sadiki, Reinildo; Traore, Isidor, Le Fee

Key Stats

    Fulham have lost their last two Premier League home games vs Sunderland, with Saturday's clash the first top-flight meeting between the two sides since a 4-1 win for the Black Cats in January 2014. The Black Cats lost their most recent league game against Fulham, a 2-1 loss at Craven Cottage in the Championship in April 2018. They have not lost consecutive league meetings with the Cottagers since a run of three between 2002 and 2006.
    Fulham are unbeaten in their last ten Premier League games against newly promoted opponents (W5 D5), winning their three most recent meetings in a row. That is their longest winning run over promoted clubs in the division since October 2011 (4 in a row).
    Sunderland won their last away Premier League game against a London club 2-1 at Chelsea in October. However, the Black Cats have not won successive matches in the capital within a single season in the competition since March 2001.
    Fulham have earned 91 per cent of their points in the Premier League this season at Craven Cottage (10/11), the highest home ratio of any side in the competition this term. The Cottagers have won three of their last four home league matches (L1), as many as their previous 13 beforehand (W3 D5 L5).
    Sunderland's open play expected goals tally of 5.1 is the lowest of any side in the Premier League this season. Indeed, 47 per cent of the Black Cats' non-penalty xG in the top flight this term has come from set plays (4.5/9.7), the highest ratio of any side. On the other hand, Fulham have mustered 121 shots in their 11 Premier League games in the 2025/26 campaign, an average of exactly 11 per game. That is their lowest average ever in a season in the competition.

Player to Watch
Granit Xhaka
While Wilson Isidor, Raul Jimenez, and Alex Iwobi were viable candidates for this section, we have picked Granit Xhaka as the Player to Watch for Saturday's Premier League clash between Fulham and Sunderland at Craven Cottage.

Only Marcos Senesi (19) and Bruno Guimaraes (18) have made more passes that have broken the opponent's defensive line in the Premier League this season than the Swiss midfielder (15). Xhaka has created five chances from line-breaking passes in the competition in the 2025/26 campaign, with only Bruno Fernandes (7) producing more. So, he will be the go-to man for Regis Le Bris this weekend.

Prediction
Fulham 1-1 Sunderland
Fulham may be only a point outside the relegation zone, but they have been much better at Craven Cottage this season. So, while they can drop into the bottom three, the home side will produce a resolute performance that will try to keep Sunderland at bay and take advantage of the visitors' struggles in creating open-play chances.

However, Sunderland's set-piece prowess will make the difference, although there may not be much to separate the two sides. The Hard Tackle predicts a closely-contested affair that will end in a 1-1 draw.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2025/11/21/fulham-vs-sunderland-preview-and-prediction/

[WhiteJC]

Matchday Preview: Sunderland
🆚 Sunderland
🏟 Craven Cottage
🏆 Premier League
🗓 Saturday 22nd November
⏰ 3pm

The opposition

After an eight year absence, it's been a triumphant return to the Premier League for Sunderland, who defied pre-season predictions to sit fourth in the standings heading into the international break. They've registered five victories already, and showed great character in their most recent match to snatch a point at the death in a 2-2 with league leaders Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.

Team news

🤍 Saša Lukić is suspended having accumulated five yellow cards, while Rodrigo Muniz and Antonee Robinson remain absent through injury.

🐈⬛ Dennis Cirkin, Romaine Mundle and Leo Hjelde have all recovered from injury but remain out of contention despite featuring for the Under-21s on Thursday, with Habib Diarra also out. Reinildo picked up a knock on international duty but has been declared fit for the weekend.

Tickets

This fixture has sold out. Thank you for your fantastic support!

Kits

Fulham will be in all white this weekend, with Sunderland in black.

Weather

🌧 Light rain is likely, with temperatures around eight degrees.

Lime/Forest bikes

If you use a hire bike to get to the stadium, we kindly request that it is left at a new designated zone which can be found at the junction of Woodlawn Road and Langthorne Street.

Arrive early

Until 2pm, all pints of beer, cider & cans of wine will be priced at just £5, with soft drinks available for just £2, as part of our early bird drinks offers.

Johnny Haynes Stand update

Ticket holders in the Johnny Haynes Stand are advised of several food & beverage changes heading into the weekend. Our Drinks Fast Lane will now be available from JH4, with Camden Pale a new option in JH2 and JH3, while Kopparberg Crisp Apple cider is available throughout the stand. Food is no longer available in JH2 and JH3, but hot dogs will be available in JH1, in addition to hot dogs & pies being offered by our roaming hawkers.

Bag drop

Fans are reminded of our bag drop policy that is in place.


Fulham Flutter

The Fulham Flutter allows fans from across the UK to go into the running to win some unique Fulham prizes. Fans can purchase a season ticket to be automatically entered into every home draw or buy tickets on a match-by-match basis, with the winner of our top prize announced on the big screen at half-time of the match.

NHS flu vaccinations

Protect yourself and those around you this winter. If you're eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine - including children, over-65s and people with certain health conditions - you can get yours in the Riverside Stand before and after the match today. It's quick, safe and helps protect the whole community. Check full eligibility at nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine.

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid. Overseas supporters can see who is showing the game in your region at this page.

Our community

Craven Cottage has been home to Fulham Football Club since 1894, and an integral part of the SW6 neighbourhood for well over a century.

We kindly ask supporters, and all visitors, attending games and visiting the ground on non-matchdays, to be respectful of the residential area and our neighbours when arriving at and leaving our historic home.

Craven Cottage exudes the quaintness and character befitting of London's Original Football Club, charmingly situated on the banks of the River Thames and close to hundreds of households within its immediate locality.

We kindly ask that fans and visitors are respectful and considerate to our neighbours and community at all times.

Programme

After helping Norway reach their first World Cup in 28 years, Sander Berge could have been swept away on an international high.

Instead, he's returned to Fulham with a grounded determination - not distracted by success but sharpened by it. Norway are heading to America. Before that, he wants progress in SW6.

"For us, it's about the next challenge," he tells the official matchday programme. "The Premier League is very tight, and it comes down to small details. We badly want to win, and we badly want to show our best selves. Things will turn around. Tough times don't last.

"We have to stay positive. We haven't been good enough at times this season, but we also haven't come away with points we probably have deserved. We will get better."

Elsewhere in the 104-page publication, Marco Silva, Tom Cairney and Robert Wilson pen their regular columns, while Ryan Sessegnon lifts the lid on his teammates.

We also catch up with Zat Knight for the next instalment of our Cult Heroes series and Brian McBride looks back on his time with the Club ahead of recovering the Forever Fulham award.

The programme will be on sale around the ground on Saturday priced £4. Alternatively, you can pick up a copy online.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2025/november/21/matchday-preview-sunderland/

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Pre-Sunderland Press Conference
Marco Silva spoke to the press for the first time since the news of Rodrigo Muniz's hamstring injury was announced.

Last Friday, the Club confirmed that Muniz would undergo surgery on a hamstring injury which forced him off in the 2-0 defeat at Everton earlier this month.

While not ideal news for Silva, Harry Wilson's hat-trick while playing as a striker in Wales' 7-1 thumping of North Macedonia, and Raúl Jiménez returning from international duty in rude health, gives the Fulham boss plenty to think about ahead of Saturday's meeting with Sunderland.

"Rodrigo had surgery last Saturday," said Silva. "Really bad news for us. A long period for him to be out and for him to have a setback in his first game back is painful for him.

"He's a player that has big aims for the season. It's sad for him, his teammates and all staff at the football club. In terms of time scale, the middle of February is probably the time for him. If he can come back earlier then that's better for us, but it's a long period without him.

"We have Raúl, with help from Jonah [Kusi-Asare], and Aaron [Loupalo-Bi] from the Under-21s. We have different solutions. We have wingers who can adapt, not replicating what we usually do with Raúl and Rodrigo.

"Harry Wilson played as a number nine [for Wales]. We tried something similar with Josh King against Bournemouth when we didn't have Rodrigo and Raúl at the same time. Harry Wilson was a second striker, almost, during some moments of that game.

"The first time for him to be the captain of his national team and to score three goals, you can imagine it was an amazing night for him."

Sunderland have been grabbing the headlines since their promotion from the Championship in May.

Régis Le Bris' newcomers are currently in the Champions League spots – and became just the third team to take points off Arsenal last time out, with Brian Brobbey's stoppage-time equaliser earning the Black Cats a dramatic point at the Stadium of Light.

But Silva was keen to point out to the press that Sunderland's position isn't a false one – and are deservedly competing at the top among the Premier League's elite.

"First of all, it's about the quality they have been showing," said Silva. "They've done brilliantly the last few seasons to come from lower divisions up to the Premier League.

"I think back to the Semi-Finals of the Play-Offs last season, a late goal from a set-piece. If you look at this season, they've scored many late goals and many set-pieces. One of the good things when you get promoted is you come up in a good mood.

"The mood, environment and good vibes are always there, and in football, good vibes and mood aren't always decisive, but sometimes it can be that difference at the end of the match.

"They have quality, individual quality, with the money they've spent, but the reality is, clubs in the past have spent heavily in the market as well and haven't been able to achieve. It's a mix of everything; individual quality, a great job from the Manager, players with lots of experience. They deserve the position they're in right now and it's going to be a very good test for us.

"We know we are capable of doing much better than the last game and we have to prove our quality tomorrow at Craven Cottage."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2025/november/21/sunderland-press-conference/

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From the press box: Silva answers questions about his future
Jack Kelly gives us the latest from Marco Silva's pre-Sunderland press conference.

Even Marco Silva himself admitted that today looked like a 'Premier League Press Conference." Eight reporters, three for broadcast (Sky, Premier League Productions and BBC) and five for written press. This honest admission summed up things today at Motspur Park where, in my opinion, Silva was open, honest and as transparent as I've ever seen. The main bulk of this impression I got came in the embargoed section.

This can be read and digested from 22:30 this evening on my X and Patreon.

He said he expected the amount of bodies in the room, he expected the constant contract questions. It's an intriguing situation, which over the international break was reported on by multiple outlets.

Don't get me wrong, Silva didn't come out and say whether he was staying or leaving. Nothing like that. But, he explained how the club are and need to be on the same page to help develop and progress at Fulham Football Club. Here are some key quotes from the broadcast section:

Silva on contract offer: "Not many things to share. Grateful for the interest from the club. We had some conversations. With the owner, Tony and CEO. I was with Mr. Khan last month too, some meetings, about the situations with Muniz and Jedi.

"They know I love being at the club, they know I'm not an easy guy to deal with all the time. They recognise the job everyone is doing. The will and desire is there, let's see what the news will be, nothing new for now.

"I know what the club needs to develop, to grow. We have to all be on the same page to help the club progress."

Silva on rumours around him: "It's normal. It's not that I don't respect your job, but for me to see or read things on tv, it's not something that's part of my daily basis. I have other things to focus on. I prefer to not read it."

Silva on the board: "We don't agree on everything, but we are on the same page. In some moments, not everything is perfect, the fans too want to progress. Doesn't mean we don't have a great relationship. I'm an ambitious manager, I want the best for the club.

"We have always been on the same page as football people. Standing still is not something I believe in. When the news comes, you will hear. Really grateful for the interest again, I know I can be intense in all these years."

Silva finished: "I've given the club enough signs that I don't want to leave the football club. (Turning down other offers.)"

A lot of quotes there, usually I post two-to-three from the press conference in these articles, but every quote above seemed to hold some significance. I type them, and people of course read them as face value. With not enough context, or unaware of tone of voice, or body language.

People will make up their minds based on what they see in those 240 characters. For me, I saw a different side to Silva today. Witty, charming, honest and transparent. Showing a huge amount of respect to the reporters, like he always does. But, in a way that felt like we were his friend, and we felt trusted in what he was saying.

Maybe it's just me. Maybe because I'm a fan I get wrapped up in what he says more than the average journalist. I have some skin in the game, I want the Fulham x Silva relationship to have another few chapters. I am a Fulham fan too. But I came away feeling almost valued by Silva. He took my question, answered it as honestly as he could and told me he agreed with what I was asking him about.

I doubt Silva will go home tonight and reflect too much on his press conference today, but for me, it meant something. I enjoyed it, like I do every week, but I was appreciative of the way he answered questions, looked reporters in the eye and said what was on his mind.

He still kept things to himself, he said some things are private which is what you'd expect from any manager. It was a good press conference with some good lines. That's my take, anyway.

Onto tomorrow - a big game, I'm excited but nervous. Enjoy it, make the noise and come on Fulham.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/from-the-press-box-silva-answers

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Fulham vs Sunderland Preview: Premier League, 2025/26
Marco Silva's side are in dire need of a win, but face a tough test against Sunderland.

It's been a tough start to the season for Fulham. Sitting in 15th, perilously close to the relegation zone, the Craven Cottage faithful desperately need a morale-boosting result in this encounter. Marco Silva's men have lost four of their last five, with the one spark of hope in their coming against bottom-of-the-table Wolves.

Whilst the tension is so high in West London, high-flying Sunderland are one of the last teams fans want to see rolling into town. On the other end of the spectrum, it has been quite the return to the Premier League for the Black Cats, who have grabbed the challenge by the horns and enjoyed plenty of memorable results already.

Fresh off the back of a 2-2 draw with Arsenal prior to the international break, Regis Le Bris's side will be full of confidence ahead of this encounter. Fans making the long trip down to London will likely be confident of another strong showing.

Team News:
Fulham:
Marco Silva has confirmed that Rodrigo Muniz is out with a thigh injury that is set to keep him out of action for a considerable amount of time. The Fulham head coach provided a timescale of midway through February for the striker's return.

Antonee Robinson is another confirmed absentee for the clash, with this one coming too soon for the American. He trained with the team on Friday but was deemed not to be ready for the Sunderland match.

The only other player out of action for Fulham this weekend is Sasa Lukic. Fulham's Serbian midfielder is serving a one-game suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season against Everton.

Sunderland:
Both Leo Hjelde and Romaine Mundle will not be part of the squad travelling to face Fulham as they continue to build up their fitness, representing the U21s in their latest fixture.

Habib Diarra is closing in on a return, but remains a couple of weeks away as Le Bris communicated that they were taking the time to ensure that he would be ready for the second part of the season.

The good news for Sunderland fans is that Reinildo has not suffered any lasting effects from his knock he received on international duty for Mozambique. The full-back will be available for selection against Fulham.

Likely Lineups:
Fulham:
Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Sessegnon; Iwobi, Berge; Wilson, King, Kevin; Jimenez

Sunderland:
Roefs; Hume, Mukiele, Ballard, Geertruida, Reinildo; Xhaka, Sadiki; Traore, Isidor, Le Fee

Key Players:
Fulham - Raul Jiménez
Now that it has been confirmed that Rodrigo is out for a prolonged amount of time, it is time for Raul Jiménez to step up in his absence and ensure the Cottagers do not continue to descend down the Premier League table.

The striker is fresh off finding the back of the net on international duty for Mexico, scoring in their most recent outing against Paraguay. He now needs to translate this to goals in the Premier League, something he has not found easy so far this season.

He has only scored on the solitary occasion in ten appearances and six starts in the Premier League so far this season. A goal against Sunderland would undoubtedly provide him with a substantial boost ahead of a tough run of games.

Sunderland - Granit Xhaka
If the Black Cats can gain the ascendancy early on in proceedings, then current form suggests that it should be a relatively plain-sailing afternoon for the visitors.

Of course, this may not turn out to be the case, but if Granit Xhaka can marshal the midfield from the first whistle, which he often does very well, then he will give his side a great chance of tasting victory once more.

The midfielder has been nothing short of superb since his return to the Premier League, as Sunderland fans will hope that he will continue his fine form at Craven Cottage.

Match Details:
Where is this match being played?
This match is being contested at Craven Cottage.

What time is kick-off?
This encounter counter commences at 15:00 GMT

How can I watch?
This match is not being televised in the UK



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2025/11/22/premier-league/1242088-fulham-vs-sunderland-preview-premier-league-202526.html

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Match Preview: Fulham v Sunderland — Can We Pick Up Where We Left Off?!
Can the Lads pick up where we left off before the break down at Fulham?!

Saturday 22nd November 2025
Fulham v Sunderland - Premier League
Stadium of Light Kick-Off: 15:00

Tickets & Match Coverage

Tickets: Tickets are sold out.

TV/Stream: Full live match coverage is unavailable in the UK.

Radio: Full live match commentary available via BBC Radio Newcastle (not online)

The build-up...
After years of slagging off the international break, I'm going to concede that it's not too bad spending a fortnight looking at Sunderland occupy a Champions League place in the Premier League - there, I've said it.

It's also given us two weeks to just enjoy the aftermath of the Arsenal game and soak in the progress we've made. Just two defeats in the first eleven games, and looking at those games against Burnley and Manchester United, they become more frustrating after the performances we put in at the likes of Stamford Bridge - but let's not get greedy.

Despite our only two defeats coming on the road, we have arguably been more impressive away from the Stadium of Light, and the game plan on home soil against Arsenal was very much like how we approached the Chelsea game. I think the cat is out of the bag in terms of how we don't mind defending on our travels, and this is backed up by the fact that only two sides have scored fewer away from home, and only four sides have conceded less.

Today presents a different test as our form and league standing potentially leads sides to pay us a little more respect, and has a risk of adding a little more pressure to get a result. We head to the big smoke today to take on a Fulham side who have lost five out of the last six and were pretty awful last time out against Everton, but does this mean we tinker with the approach to be more on the front foot?

Even though we need to remortgage the house ahead of a trip to Fulham, it's one of the few grounds with a bit of character and with a 3pm kick-off has a good feel to it - let's hope we feel the same way at 5pm.

Fulham fans have had it good the last few years. After coming out of a period of being a true yo-you club bouncing between the top two divisions, they finally cracked it with Marco Silva when they last returned to the Premier League.

Only Arteta and Pep have been in charge of their club longer than Silva has been in the Fulham hotseat in the Premier League, and if you look at the last three years, it's easy to see why. Finishing between 10th and 13th in the table while having two FA Cup quarter-final appearances and a League Cup semi-final tie in that time qualifies as a significant step up in the club's fortunes from the years that came before Silva's appointment.

But, as so many clubs have experienced in the past, a period like that ends up with a question - what's next? This is where fans question the ambition of the club, and the manager gets a little twitchy in regard to looking around to see what other employment might be around to match his own ambition, or causing unrest by demanding more from the powers that be.

Silva was vocal during the summer about how he would have preferred more players arriving through the doors after they put all their eggs in one basket with the signing of highly-rated Kevin, from Shakhtar Donetsk, for the best part of £35m.

Rumours circulated that Silva might be off, but he remained in the dugout when the new season kicked off, and it looked like more of the same after they won two and drew two in their opening five games. But since then, they have lost five of the last six, where a 3-0 win over Wolves hinted that they had turned the corner, before having a bit of a shocker at Everton before the international break.

This resulted in rumours circulating over the latest break in play that Silva was about to be sacked at any moment, which would have been a strange decision, especially because Brendan Rodgers was top of the bookmakers' market to replace him.

But despite all of that, Fulham have only lost once in five on home soil heading into today's game - and that was against Arsenal - so Le Bris won't be making the mistake of underestimating the Cottagers this afternoon.

The betting...
The bookies have the Lads at 11/14 to win the game, while Fulham are favourites at 21/20, and the draw is 21/10.

Head to head... at Craven Cottage

(All competitions)

    Sunderland wins: 13
    Draws: 7
    Fulham wins: 12
    Sunderland goals: 47
    Fulham goals: 42

Last time we met... at Craven Cottage
Saturday 28th January 2023
FA Cup - Fourth Round
Fulham 1-1 Sunderland

[Cairney 61' - Clarke 6']

    Sunderland: Patterson, Hume, Ballard, Batth, Alese (Huggins), Neil, Michut (Ekwah), Roberts (Rigg), Diallo, Clarke (Bennette), Stewart (Ba) Substitutes not used: Bass, Johnson, Kelly, Watson

    Fulham: Rodak, Tete, Kurzawa, Palhinha (Reed), Diop, Adarabioyo, Wilson (Willian), Cairney (Reid), Vinicus (Mitrovic), Pereira, Solomon Substitutes not used: Leno, Duffy, Ream, Harris, James

    Attendance: 22,905

Played for both...
Andy Melville

Melville began his career with Swansea City, where he spent his first four years ahead of a move to Oxford United in the summer of 1990. It would be three years before Terry Butcher made a move to sign the Welsh international for an initial fee of £500,000 - although the deal also included Anton Rogan in exchange.

Melville would spend a successful six years on Wearside, making over 200 appearances. A classy defender on his day, his final season would see him miss only two League games as Sunderland won the second tier with 105 points in 1999. Spells at Fulham, West Ham United and Nottingham Forest followed Sunderland before retirement in 2005.

Prediction...
Fulham 1-1 Sunderland

I might stop predicting in the previews, because whenever I have thought we might come unstuck like at Chelsea and last time out against Arsenal the Lads pull a result out of the bag and whenever I get a bit confident, as I did against Everton, it doesn't quite go to plan. That leaves me in a tricky position, so I'm going to go with a draw.



https://rokerreport.sbnation.com/match-previews/114965/match-preview-fulham-v-sunderland-can-we-pick-up-where-we-left-off

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Marco Silva 'On the Same Page' as Fulham Amid Private Contract Talks
Marco Silva claims he is on 'the same page' as Fulham over his new contract but admits he will not be rushing into signing it.

Fulham's head coach has been offered a new three-and-a-half year deal starting in January, but the head coach is waiting to see if his bosses match his own ambition.

Silva was unhappy with the lack of activity in the summer transfer window and has now been rocked by injury to striker to Rodrigo Muniz - leaving him struggling for cover up front.

Fulham Contract Talks Ongoing With Marco Silva
Talks have been ongoing over a new deal for the Portuguese but there is still uncertainty over his future.

Silva said: "I am grateful for the interest from the club. We have been having conversations since. Not just about the contract but about the situation with Rodrigo, things that we want to do and what will come in December and January.

"They know I love to be in this football club and the Premier League is very hard. I am also not an easy guy to deal with sometimes because I am very ambitious.

"The will and the desire is there between us. Football is about results, about progressing. It's about developing things and I know what the club needs to develop.

"The feedback is clear. The owners, the CEO, they know my position. I am with the CEO every single day.

"I said about the same page and we have been on the same page. Of course, we don't agree on everything. I think in your job, you don't agree on everything.

"Not everything is perfect. But that doesn't mean that we are not on the same page. That doesn't mean that we don't have a great relationship and an honest and very respectful relationship with everybody at the top of the club.

"I always want the best for the football club. I know how it was difficult for us to achieve what we did achieve the last few seasons."

Silva's current deal expires at the end of this season and last year he was linked with the vacant job at Tottenham and to Nottingham Forest in September.

Brazilian forward Muniz is out until February following hamstring surgery. Veteran Raul Jimenez is back from international duty with Mexico but Silva fears he is now weak in his forward line.

Joni Kusi-Asare was signed on deadline from Bayern Munich on a loan deal with an option to buy, but has yet to make a first team appearance. Aaron Loupalo-Bi is a hot Under-21s prospect.

Fulham host fourth-placed Sunderland on Saturday with just one win in six Premier League games.

Muniz's injury could prove Silva's point that Fulham were not active enough in the summer transfer market.

Silva said: "We have to go with Raul and to help the boys that we have, John and Aaron in the under 21s, to help them be ready to help the team.

"And of course, you have different solutions, not as a proper number nine in our squad, wingers, that we can adapt there or whatever, but it's a clear adaptation in the way we want to play."



https://www.givemesport.com/fulham-marco-silva-on-same-page-amid-private-contract-talks/

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Silva senses key attacker will be out for a 'long period'
The Fulham head coach continues to battle obstacles.

Marco Silva reflected on a key absence for Fulham.

Rodrigo Muniz suffered a hamstring injury in a 2-0 loss against Everton a fortnight ago, and he will be absent for the foreseeable future. Raul Jimenez, his main challenger for the role of the starting number nine, is the only senior alternative to the Brazilian in a squad that has been stretched thin.

The head coach already encountered this issue earlier in the season, and if Rodrigo remains sidelined for several months, he will not be able to use Jimenez in the position of the central forward in all circumstances. The 15th placed team in the Premier League will have to lean into creative answers.

"Rodrigo had surgery last Saturday. Really bad news for us. A long period for him to be out and for him to have a setback in his first game back is painful for him.

"He's a player that has big aims for the season. It's sad for him, his teammates and all staff at the football club. In terms of time scale, the middle of February is probably the time for him. If he can come back earlier then that's better for us, but it's a long period without him.

"We have Raul Jimenez, with help from Jonah Kusi-Asare, and Aaron Loupalo-Bi from the Under-21s. We have different solutions. We have wingers who can adapt, not replicating what we usually do with Raúl and Rodrigo.

"Harry Wilson played as a number nine [for Wales]. We tried something similar with Josh King against Bournemouth when we didn't have Rodrigo and Raúl at the same time. Harry Wilson was a second striker, almost, during some moments of that game. The first time for him to be the captain of his national team and to score three goals, you can imagine it was an amazing night for him."



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2025/11/21/fulham/1242064-silva-senses-key-attacker-will-be-out-for-a-long-period.html

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Fulham vs Sunderland: XI For The Black Cats' Crucial Visit to Craven Cottage
Sunderland has to earn as many Premier League points as possible prior to the start of the AFCON Cup, where they will have several absences for a long period of time, and an away match against Fulham is the perfect opportunity.

Sunderland will visit Craven Cottage for the 12th Premier League Matchday, where they will try to cement their place in the UEFA Champions League spots against a weak Fulham team.

After the international break, Sunderland will resume their surprising season, facing Fulham in an important match, after the last Premier League one, where a late goal from Bradley Brobbey tied Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats sit now fourth in the Premier League standings, in which Arsenal leads right now, but other teams like Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Manchester United are waiting for any slip from Sunderland, looking to overtake the last Champions League spot.

The last time Sunderland faced Fulham in a Premier League match was more than ten years ago, with Sunderland demolishing Fulham with a 4-1 win.

However, injuries have struck both teams severely before the international break, changing everything before the match and how it is expected to unfold and affect tomorrow.

Key players like Antonee Robinson, Rodrigo Muniz, and Sasa Lukic will be out for Fulham. Meanwhile, Sunderland will recover Omar Alderete, while others like Dennis Cirkin, Romaine Mundle are still doubtful.

Possible Starting XI's for Fulham vs Sunderland
Regis Le Bris's starting lineup will have some changes after some restful days for some, but physical for others who played for their national teams fighting for the last World Cup spots.

According to SofaScore's platform, these are the predicted starting lineups for Sunderland vs Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Sunderland
Goalkeeper: Robin Roefs.
Defenders: Trai Hume, Nordi Mukiele, Daniel Ballard, Lutsharel Geertruida, and Reinildo Mandava.
Midfielders: Bertrand Traoré, Granit Xhaka, Noah Sadiki, and Enzo Le Fee.
Attackers: Wilson Isidor.

Fulham
Goalkeeper: Bernd Leno.
Defenders: Ryan Sessegnon, Calvin Bassey, Joachim Andersen, and Keny Tete.
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Sander Berge, Kevin, Joshua King, and Harry Wilson.
Attackers: Raúl Jiménez.

For Sunderland players like Granit Xhaka, this match is a great challenge where he will need to prove his leadership.



https://www.si.com/soccer/sunderland/sunderland-nation-match-coverage/fulham-vs-sunderland-xi-lineups

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Fulham vs Sunderland: How to Watch on TV, Live Stream
Sunderland will visit Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League Matchday 12 on November 22. Here is everything you need to know about how to watch the match.

The Black Cats will return to Premier League action on Saturday, when they land in London to face Fulham, seeking to keep their surprising season alive by beating one of the weakest teams in English football right now.

Sunderland is right now in 4th position of the Premier League, but now they have the chance to exploit Fulham's negative streak to scale up to second position to tie Manchester City.

Regis Le Bris's team remain unbeaten for the last four matches, while Fulham has only won one of the last five matches, being one of the Premier League's worst forms right now.

Injuries have limited Fulham's options in a pretty uphill battle, with key players like Rodrigo Muñiz and Antonee Robinson out of the game, while Raul Jiménez just took an overseas flight during the international break where he played for Mexico.

Next, we'll share key information about this match, such as the time and where to watch it on television or streaming.

What Time Does West Ham United vs. Newcastle United Kick Off?

    Location: London, England
    Venue: Craven Cottage
    Date: Saturday, November 22
    Kick-off time: 03:00 PM BST / 10:00 AM ET / 07:00 AM PT
    Referee: Darren England

How to Watch Fulham vs. Sunderland on TV, Live Stream

UK viewers can watch this game on the Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League TV channels, as part of the broadcaster's deal to show every kickoff this season.

If you're in the United States or Canada, there will be several options. In the USA, the match can be watched on fuboTV, nbcsports.com, NBC Sports App, UNIVERSO NOW, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, USA Network, and UNIVERSO. As for Canada, the options are DAZN, fuboTV, Amazon Prime Video, Fubo Sports Network 7.

COUNTRY	TV CHANNEL / STREMING
UNITED KINGDOM	Sky Sports
UNITED STATES	uboTV, nbcsports.com, NBC Sports App, UNIVERSO NOW, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, USA Network, UNIVERSO
CANADA	DAZN, FuboTV, Amazon Prime Video, Fubo Sports Network 7
MEXICO	HBO Max, TNT Go, Amazon Prime Video, TNT Sports
INDIA	Disney+ Hotstar
AUSTRALIA	Stan Sport
NEW ZEALAND	Sky Sport 4

What's Next for Sunderland and Fulham?
Sunderland faces a series of challenging matches in the Premier League, including a fixture against Bournemouth over the next days.

The Black Cats will begin December by facing Liverpool for Premier League Matchday 14, and a few days later, they will play Manchester City and Newcastle.

As for Fulham, their next match will be for Premier League Matchday 13 against Tottenham. After that, they will play against Man City and Crystal Palace.



https://www.si.com/soccer/sunderland/sunderland-nation-match-coverage/fulham-sunderland-how-watch-tv-live-stream

[WhiteJC]

Kusi-Asare isn't ready, says Fulham boss Silva
Marco Silva does not believe Jonah Kusi-Asare is ready for Premier League football.

The 18-year-old forward has made just one league appearance, as a late substitute against Newcastle last month, since joining Fulham on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich during the summer.

The deal is with a view to a permanent move, and Kusi-Asare is regarded as one for the future.

Fulham's attacking options are currently limited, with Rodrigo Muniz sidelined by a hamstring injury, but boss Silva does not seem tempted to throw the youngster in.

Silva said: "When we signed him, clearly we saw certain things in him. He has some skills that are important in a striker.

"I know that he's in a massive football club, but he didn't play enough senior football before he joined our football club.

"When he first arrived, it was a moment for us to start to know him, to see what stage that he's at right now.

"When you take decisions, you don't take them because he's a player A, B, C, or D, it's because of the stage they compare to the others.

"I think you can take the conclusions of what I'm saying to you right now. If he's not playing in this moment of the competition, it means that he's not in a stage that he's ready to go."

Signing a forward looks like being a priority for Fulham when the transfer window reopens in January.

But Silva admits getting one is likely to be tricky.

"That position now isn't going to be an easy market, I think, for all the clubs in general," he said.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/kusi-asare-isnt-ready-says-fulham-boss-silva

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'Penalty shootout' - Fulham boss admits Super Eagles trio still feeling the pain of World Cup miss
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Fulham manager Marco Silva revealed that Super Eagles stars Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey are still dealing with the emotional impact of Nigeria's painful penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoffs.

Chukwueze, Iwobi and Bassey all started as the Super Eagles lost to the Leopards 4-3 on penalties despite taking an early lead through Frank Onyeka, whose deflected strike beat goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau.

A moment of carelessness from Iwobi in midfield, where he was dispossessed and slow to track back, gifted the Democratic Republic of Congo their 32nd-minute equaliser.

During the shootout, Bassey, who had arguably been Nigeria's standout performer on the night, saw his penalty fly over the crossbar.

The Nigerian trio were among the Fulham players that returned to West London this week ahead of the Premier League game against Sunderland at Craven Cottage, and Silva admitted the mood has been far from uniform within the squad.

On the morale of his players that have been on international breaks, Silva was quoted as saying by the BBC: "Some of them come with completely different feelings.

"Some have another chance to go and to play the play-offs to be in the World Cup [while] others already qualified.

"You have different examples - players that lost a chance in penalty shootouts as well. It's part of the business."

Provided they remain injury-free, the Fulham trio are all but certain to be included in the Super Eagles' 2025 Africa Cup of Nations squad in Morocco next month.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://allnigeriasoccer.com/penalty-shootout-fulham-boss-admits-super-eagles-trio-still-feeling-the-pain-of-world-cup-miss

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Silva: I'm not looking to leave Fulham

Marco Silva responds to more questions about his Fulham future.

The club want head coach Silva to sign a new contract amid speculation that he could move elsewhere.

Silva admits there have been behind-the-scenes disagreements, but insists he and the Fulham hierarchy are "on the same page" and that he is committed to the club.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/silva-im-not-looking-to-leave-fulham